Introduction

A recent circular issued by the Minister of National Education and New Citizenship is generating strong reactions in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This document instructs schools to allow pregnant girls to remain enrolled so they can continue their education. In this article, we examine how Congolese society is responding to this circular, consider what Congolese law says on the matter, and conclude with a broader reflection.

A Divided Public Opinion

Since the publication of this decision, public opinion in the DRC has been deeply divided. Some view school as a place for imparting values. From their perspective, the presence of a pregnant student, often underage, raises moral and social concerns. They believe she may face stigma and judgment from her peers, which could negatively impact the school environment. Some also fear that such a measure could normalize what is considered a social anomaly.

What Do These Voices Suggest?

These voices propose creating parallel educational structures specifically for pregnant girls or temporarily suspending their schooling until after they give birth. Others, however, welcome the ministerial initiative. To them, pregnancy should not be an obstacle to the right to education. Excluding a pregnant girl, they argue, only deepens her marginalization and jeopardizes her future. They emphasize the importance of an inclusive school system where all girls, regardless of their circumstances, can continue learning.

What Does Congolese Law Say?

Legally speaking, no law in the DRC prohibits pregnant girls from attending school. The Congolese Constitution, particularly Articles 13, 14, and 43 guarantees the right to education for all, without discrimination. Pregnancy, therefore, is not a valid reason for exclusion from the school system. Moreover, the DRC is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Article 28 of the Convention states that States must ensure every child’s right to education, without any form of discrimination. As a result, denying a pregnant girl access to school violates not only the Congolese Constitution but also the country’s international commitments.

Conclusion

The issue of schooling for pregnant girls remains a sensitive one in Congolese society. While no legal text prohibits their presence in school, cultural and moral resistance still lingers. This circular highlights the tension between social norms and fundamental rights. The challenge for authorities will be to balance the protection of educational values, the respect of human rights, and the support of pregnant girls in building a better future.